As winter draws in, many of us are looking forward to festive gatherings and warm moments with family. But for too many families, the season brings a complex reality – a reminder of the ongoing battle against kidney disease.
On Christmas Eve 2016, Clodagh’s parents were told she’d need a kidney transplant. For the first four years of Clodagh’s life, she endured countless hospital stays and exhausting treatments. She had little energy to enjoy her time being a child.
Like many other carers, Clodagh's mum Nicole stopped working to provide round-the-clock care for her daughter and two other children. Kidney Care UK provided financial support to ease the financial pressure around hospital stays, such as petrol for travel and buying food.
Everything changed when Clodagh got her best Christmas gift ever – a new kidney from her dad!
After the transplant Clodagh had all her firsts, like her first time at a park, on the swings, at the pool, all these small things that you take for granted.Clodagh's mum Nicole
Thanks to funding from Kidney Care UK, through our generous supporters like you, Clodagh has even competed in the British Transplant Games, winning four gold medals, something she hopes to repeat at a future Games!
But Clodagh’s journey isn’t over. Kidney disease remains a daily reality, and with it comes the need for continued support.
This Christmas, Clodagh’s wish is simple: for those living with kidney disease to have more time filled with joy. By giving today to support Kidney Care UK’s vital services, you can help make Clodagh’s wish come true.
Your support makes a difference
Kidney Care UK are here to support everyone affected by kidney disease. We receive no government funding. It is your generosity that allows us to continue our vital work to improve life for kidney patients and their families.
In 2023:
- We provided information, advice and support to more than 1.3 million kidney patients and their families.
- Our teams secured more than £1.5million in benefits income for families living in hardship across the UK.
- More than £806,000 was awarded in patient grants to help people living with CKD pay their bills, cover respite costs, buy household goods and much more.
- Our team of specialist counsellors delivered more than 1,800 sessions of counselling to kidney patients and their families.
Need help with your donation?
Please get in touch. Email us at [email protected] or call the Kidney Care UK Fundraising team on 01420 594 943 (Monday to Friday, between 9:30am and 4:30pm).
